Trump's Aid Cut to Israel Linked to US Midterm Election Fallout

Following the Republican Party's defeat in the US midterm elections, President Donald Trump announced a decision that could significantly alter relations with Israel: an intention to cease military aid to the country by the end of 2026. American studies expert Eitan Gilboa, speaking to 103fm radio, analyzed the potential political calculations behind this move and the broader implications of the election results for American society and its foreign policy.

Gilboa suggested that the election outcomes indicate a deeper rejection of Trump's political course and governing methods, rather than mere dissatisfaction with the current president. The significant gains by Democrats, securing 55 Senate seats against the Republicans' 45 and over 250 House of Representatives seats, along with gubernatorial victories, represent an exceptional shift in American politics, strengthening the Democratic Party for future elections and questioning the long-term influence of the Trump movement.

According to Gilboa, the primary driver for the Republican defeat was the economic situation of Americans, particularly the 45% rise in gasoline prices and a 70% increase in diesel costs for truckers, coupled with accelerating inflation. This economic discontent, he argued, overshadowed foreign policy achievements and led voters to hold Trump directly responsible, rather than attributing the economic downturn to conflicts like the one with Iran.

Regarding the decision to halt aid to Israel, Gilboa proposed it might be a strategic move within the US election campaign context. He theorized that Trump could be attempting to preemptively neutralize criticism from political opponents who argue that funds sent to Israel should be used for domestic needs. Gilboa pointed to the aggressive campaign tactics of Senate candidate Abdul al-Sayed in Michigan, which specifically targeted US aid to Israel, as an example of this criticism. The expert emphasized that this explanation is not a confirmed fact but rather a plausible interpretation of an unusual decision driven by domestic political considerations.

The shift in power in Congress means the US president must now contend with a Democratic majority, impacting legislative initiatives and requiring broader consensus. For Israel, the future of US security assistance is a key concern, especially amidst growing domestic US debate over foreign aid spending. Gilboa concluded that the midterm election results signal a substantial change in the American political landscape, empowering Democrats and limiting Trump's political maneuverability.